One afternoon on Hampstead Heath. Seven couples. A stellar ensemble cast in a witty and moving account of modern relationships, centring on failures of communication about love and sex.
A contentedly married man gazes at a beautiful French girl’s knickers. A couple look forward to a happily-divorced life together. A gay couple with an open relationship consider adoption. Two people meet and chat, then realise they were once in love. Two more meet for a blind date picnic. A young man is desperate to get a young woman (who has just been dumped by her lover) into bed, and when he has no luck he tries a certain beautiful French girl.
This feature was newsworthy even in its early stages of development; a directorial debut to which many of our most talented actors were keen to attach themselves, accomplished astonishingly quickly and cheaply. The hook was Aschlin Ditta’s deft, economical script. The spirit was one of plucky British invention and determination, and it paid off in several ways. The immediacy resulted in a charming light touch, and the intimacy fostered some wonderful performances. A sweet sense of humour persists through tales of embarrassment, grief and disappointment.
It’s not X-rated, but the title is perfect. It’s about how we all behave – usually badly – when in lust, in love and in trouble. LL

CLOSING NIGHT PARTYSUNDAY 8 OCTOBER FROM 9:30PM / THE EVE CLUB 3 NEW BURLINGTON ST, W1
Following the jury prize-giving and the festival’s final screening – Scenes of a Sexual – join us for one last drink to share memories and anecdotes of the festival. The party will be held at The Eve Club – please be sure to retain your cinema ticket for admission. Tickets to the screening and party are £20. Festival pass-holders get free admission if they have confirmed and collected their tickets in advance.